The aim of the Action is to exchange information and best practices with Mediterranean countries and Member States of the European Union (EU), and particularly their Local Authorities, which face similar challenges in respect to the management and the integration of Third Country Nationals in their local communities.

The project developed an Origin Guide, addressed to migrants living in Cyprus and who were about to return to their country of origin. The target countries were Syria, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. The primary objective of the guides is to help migrants, returning to their country of origin, to re-integrate to their local society and labour market.

The project investigated the perceptions and attitudes of Cypriot students in primary and secondary schools with respect to immigrants (Third Country Nationals). The research included a survey among 1250 students, interviews and focus groups. A set of recommendations were prepared regarding educational policies and integration procedures in public schools.

The research identified the needs of Asylum Seekers and beneficiaries of international protection and examined the effectiveness of policies, practices and projects targeting them. A set of recommendations were developed in order to address the identified needs and capitalize on the Best Practices.

The objective of the project was to support persons with international protection status to be successfully integrated in the local Cyprus labour market and the local society, through vocational training programs. Training courses were developed and delivered courses to more than 200 members of the target group in areas like entrepreneurship, mentorship, train the trainer, basic computer skills, and employment skills.

The Cyprus Information Guide was developed to provides general information on Cyprus and is addressed to new migrants coming in the country. It is envisioned to have positive impact on the integration process of the migrants and help them learn basic aspects of local culture and history. The Guide will help migrants to understand their rights and responsibilities and identify opportunities for employment, access to education, health care, social security and increase their civic engagement.

The Mediterranean Migration Network (MMN) was established within the framework of the project “Establishment of multilateral networks with countries in the Mediterranean region” (Action E2, European Integration Fund for Third Country Nationals, Annual Programme 2012). The project was co-funded by the European Integration Fund for Third Country Nationals (95%) and the Republic of Cyprus (5%). The Mediterranean Migration Network currently has more than 200 active members collaborating and exchanging ideas on issues and initiates concerning migration and integration.